Thirteen Seattle-area students were surprised with college scholarships by Amazon as part of its “Amazon Future Engineer” program. The scholarships were awarded during an event at Amazon’s Prime Air drone facility in Seattle. The winners come from various school districts in the region, including Bellevue, Lake Washington, Seattle Public Schools, Sumner-Bonney Lake, and University Place. Recipients include students from Newport High School, Eastlake High School, Chief Sealth High School, Cleveland STEM High School, Franklin High School, Garfield High School, and Curtis Senior High School.
The scholarship recipients will receive up to $40,000 to pursue degrees in computer science, engineering, or related fields at the college or university of their choice. Selection criteria included academic achievement, leadership experience, participation in school and community activities, work experience, future goals, and financial need. In addition to the scholarship, students will also receive a paid internship offer at Amazon after their freshman year of college. This opportunity aims to empower students from historically underrepresented and underserved communities to pursue rewarding careers and drive innovation for a more equitable and sustainable future.
The Amazon Future Engineer program has awarded scholarships to 17 students in Washington state and 400 students nationwide this year. Since the program’s launch in 2019, Amazon has committed $54 million in scholarships to 1,350 students across the U.S. Through this initiative, Amazon aims to invest in computer science education and provide opportunities for students to shape the future through innovation. Victor Reinoso, global director of education philanthropy at Amazon, highlighted the importance of equipping students with the skills to drive innovation and create a more equitable future for generations to come.
The recipients of the Amazon Future Engineer scholarships expressed excitement and gratitude upon receiving their awards. The surprise ceremony at the Prime Air drone facility added to the special moment for the students, who believed they were attending a final scholarship interview. The scholarship not only provides financial support for their education but also opens doors to opportunities for career development and growth in the tech industry. By investing in students from diverse backgrounds, Amazon aims to foster a more inclusive and innovative workforce that can address the challenges of the future.
The successful applicants demonstrated a range of skills and experiences that contributed to their selection for the Amazon Future Engineer scholarships. Academic excellence, leadership potential, community involvement, and career aspirations were key factors in the decision-making process. The scholarships offer a pathway for students to pursue their interests in computer science and engineering, fields that are crucial for driving technological advances and solving complex problems. The program not only benefits the individual recipients but also contributes to a more diverse and skilled workforce in the tech industry.
Overall, the Amazon Future Engineer scholarship program aims to provide opportunities for underrepresented students to pursue higher education and careers in tech-related fields. By investing in the education and development of these students, Amazon is supporting future innovators and leaders in the technology sector. The scholarships, internships, and mentorship opportunities offered through the program are designed to empower students to make a positive impact on the world through their skills and knowledge. This initiative reflects Amazon’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the tech industry and its dedication to fostering talent and innovation for a better tomorrow.
